To solve the problem of inaccurate angle adjustment in the self-assembly process, a new homogenous hybrid modular self-reconfigurable robot-Xmobot is designed. Each module has four rotary joints and a self-turning mec...To solve the problem of inaccurate angle adjustment in the self-assembly process, a new homogenous hybrid modular self-reconfigurable robot-Xmobot is designed. Each module has four rotary joints and a self-turning mechanism. With the proposed self-turning mechanism, the angle adjusting accuracy of the module is increased to 2°, and the relative position adjusting efficiency of the module in the self-assembly process is also improved. The measured maximum moving distance of the proposed module in a gait cycle is 11.0 cm. Aiming at the multiple degree of freedom （MDOF） feature of the proposed module, a motion controller based on the central pattern generator （CPG） is proposed. The control of five joints of the module only requires two CPG oscillators. The CPG-based motion controller has three basic output modes, i. e. the oscillation, the rotation, and the fixed modes. The serpentine and the wheeled movements of the H-shaped robot are simulated, respectively. The results show that the average velocities of the two movements are 15. 2 and 20. 1 m/min, respectively. The proposed CPG-based motion controller is evaluated to be effective.展开更多
Based on the character of the modular self-reconfigurable （MSR） robot, a novel homogeneous and lattice MSR robot, M-Cubes, was designed. Each module unit of the robot has 12 freedoms and is composed of six rotary jo...Based on the character of the modular self-reconfigurable （MSR） robot, a novel homogeneous and lattice MSR robot, M-Cubes, was designed. Each module unit of the robot has 12 freedoms and is composed of six rotary joints and one cubic link. An attached/detached mechanism was designed on the rotary joints. A novel space transmitting system was placed on the inner portion of the cubic link. A motor separately transmitted torque to the six joints which were distributed equally on six surfaces of the cubic link. The example of a basic motion for the module was demonstrated. The result shows that the robot is concise and compact in structure, highly efficient in transmission, credible in connecting, and simple in controlling. At the same time, a simulator is developed to graphically design the system configuration, the reconfiguration process and the motion of cluster modules. The character of local action for the cellular automata （CA） is utilized. Each module is simplified as a cell. The transition rules of the CA are developed to combine with the genetic algorithm （GA） and applied to each module to accomplish distributed control. Simulation proves that the method is effective and feasible.展开更多
A novel modular self-reconfigurable robot called UBot is presented.This robot consists of severalstandard modules.The module is cubic structure based on double rotational DOF,and has four connect-ing surfaces that can...A novel modular self-reconfigurable robot called UBot is presented.This robot consists of severalstandard modules.The module is cubic structure based on double rotational DOF,and has four connect-ing surfaces that can connect to adjacent modules.A hook-type mechanism is designed,which can quick-ly and reliably connect to or disconnect from adjacent module.This mechanism is self-locking after con-nected,and energy-saving.To achieve small overall size and mass,compact mechanical structures andelectrical systems are adopted in modular design.The modules have embedded power supply and adoptwireless communication,which can avoid cable-winding and improve flexibility of locomotion and self-re-configuration.A group of UBot modules can adapt their configuration and function to the changing envi-ronment without external help by changing their connections and positions .The basic motion and self-re-configuration are proposed,and the experiments of worm-like locomotion are implemented.展开更多
In this paper, we propose a novel, 3D, like cubic shape, modular self-reconfigurable (MSR) robot named M-Cubes. Its key mechanical components are analyzed in detail. By communicating with the neighboring modules, each...In this paper, we propose a novel, 3D, like cubic shape, modular self-reconfigurable (MSR) robot named M-Cubes. Its key mechanical components are analyzed in detail. By communicating with the neighboring modules, each unit employs its automatic lock device composed of a pin and a hole on each connection plane which can connect or disconnect with neighboring modules. The M-Cubes system consisting of many identical modules cooperates to change their connection, and then the whole structure transforms into arbitrary structure. Furthermore, we describe its locomotion control based on the driving function and the adjacency matrix which is effective for solving the computationally difficult problem and optimizing the system motion path during the self-reconfiguration process. Finally, a simulation experiment using java 3D technology, proved the new method for controlling modular robot is robust and useful.展开更多
Configuration information acquisition and matching are two important steps in the self-reconfiguring process of self-reconfigurable robots. The process of configuration information acquisition was introduced, and a se...Configuration information acquisition and matching are two important steps in the self-reconfiguring process of self-reconfigurable robots. The process of configuration information acquisition was introduced, and a self-reconfiguring configuration matching strategy based on graded optimization mechanism was proposed. The first-grade optimization was to search common connection between matching scheme and goal configuration. The second-grade optimization, whose object function was constructed in terms of configuration connectivity, was to search connnon topology according to the results of the first-grade optimization. The entire process of configuration information acquisition and matching was verified by an experiment and genetic algorithm （GA）. The result shows the accuracy of the configuration information acquisition and the effectiveness of the configuration matching method.展开更多
A novel mobile self-reconfigurable robot is presented. This robot consists of several independent units. Each unit is composed of modular components including ultrasonic sensor, camera, communication, computation, and...A novel mobile self-reconfigurable robot is presented. This robot consists of several independent units. Each unit is composed of modular components including ultrasonic sensor, camera, communication, computation, and mobility parts, and is capable of simple self-reconfiguring to enhance its mobility by expanding itself. Several units can not only link into a train or other shapes autonomously via camera and sensors to be a united whole robot for obstacle clearing, but also disjoin to be separate units under control after missions. To achieve small overall size, compact mechanical structures are adopted in modular components design, and a miniature advanced RISC machines （ARM） based embedded controller is developed for minimal power consumption and efficient global control. The docking experiment between two units has also been implemented.展开更多
A self-reconfigurable robot is a non-linear complex system composed of a large number of modules. The complexity caused by non-linearity makes it difficult to solve the problem of module motion planning and shape-chan...A self-reconfigurable robot is a non-linear complex system composed of a large number of modules. The complexity caused by non-linearity makes it difficult to solve the problem of module motion planning and shape-changing control with the traditional algorithm. In this paper, a full-discrete metamorphic algorithm is proposed. The modules concurrently process the local sensing information, update their eigenvector, and act by the same predetermined logical rules. Then a reasonable motion sequence for modules and the global metamorphosis can be obtained. Therefore, the complexity of metamorphic algorithm is reduced, the metamorphic procedure is simplified, and the self-organizing metamorphosis can be obtained. The algorithm cases of several typical systems are studied and evaluated through simulation program of 2-D planar homogeneous modular systems.展开更多
The most important feature of Modular Self-reconfigurable Robot （MSRR） is the adaption to complex environments and changeable tasks. A critical difficulty is that the operator should regulate a large number of contr...The most important feature of Modular Self-reconfigurable Robot （MSRR） is the adaption to complex environments and changeable tasks. A critical difficulty is that the operator should regulate a large number of control parameters of modules. In this paper, a novel locomotion control model based on chaotic Central Pattern Generator （CPG） is proposed. The chaotic CPG could produce various rhythm signals or chaotic signal only by changing one parameter. Utilizing this characteristic, a unified control model capable of switching variable locomotion patterns or generating chaotic motion for modular self-reconfigurable robot is presented. This model makes MSRR exhibit environmental adaptability. The efficiency of the control model is verified through simulation and experiment of UBot MSRR platform.展开更多
A novel hybrid self-reconfigurable modular robot is designed to finish the morphing action from line shape to hexagon shape. The robot is composed of many basic modules,each of which consists of a master module and a ...A novel hybrid self-reconfigurable modular robot is designed to finish the morphing action from line shape to hexagon shape. The robot is composed of many basic modules,each of which consists of a master module and a slave module in the shape of triangular prism. There are four connection ports on each basic module. For the master module there are two holes on each connection port,and for the slave one there are two pegs on each connection. The docking process between two neighboring basic modules is analyzed with a peg-in-hole mechanical structure. A small motion's method is presented and the contact forces are derived. According to the force/moment,the pose of a motion module should be adjusted to make two neighboring modules align and finish the docking process.Finally,a simulation of 3 basic modules is shown to finish the morphing and docking process effectively. The system can finish the morphing task from the line shape to the hexagon shape.展开更多
The eigenvector of a module with six adjacent module's state was constructed according to self-reconfigurable robot M-Cubes and the configuration of system was expressed with the eigenvectors of all modules.Accord...The eigenvector of a module with six adjacent module's state was constructed according to self-reconfigurable robot M-Cubes and the configuration of system was expressed with the eigenvectors of all modules.According to the configuration and motion characteristics of the modules,a 3-dimension motion rule set was provided.The rule sets of each module was run according to eigenvector of the module after the motion direction of system decided and motion rules were selected.At last,the rapid and effective motion and metamorphosis were realized in system.The rule sets are operated on three systems and the distributed motion of system is fully realized.The result of simulation shows that the 3-dimension motion rule sets has perfect applicability and extensibility.The motion steps and communication load of the modules increase with the module number in linear.展开更多
The advancement and development of medical surgical robots have provided new technological support for brain surgery and neurosurgical procedures,improving the reliability of highly complex and precise surgeries.In tu...The advancement and development of medical surgical robots have provided new technological support for brain surgery and neurosurgical procedures,improving the reliability of highly complex and precise surgeries.In turn,this urges the design and development of novel surgical robots to possess higher precision,stability,and enhanced motion capabilities.In response to this practical demand,this paper introduces a macro-micro integrated medical brain surgery robot system based on the concept of modular PMs(parallel mechanisms),which have a total of 13 active DOFs(degrees of freedom).This system divides the motion process of brain surgery into a large-scale macro-motion space and a small-scale high-precision motion space for design and planning control.The introduction of the design concept that combines multiple modular parallel sub-mechanisms has brought a significant level of decoupling characteristics to the mechanism itself.A comprehensive introduction and analysis of the surgical robot are provided,covering aspects such as design,kinematics,motion planning,and performance indicators.To address the pose allocation and coordination of motion between the macro platform and the micro platform,a pose allocation algorithm based on the decoupling and non-decoupling characteristics in various dimensions of the macro-micro platform is proposed.The designed measurement experiments have demonstrated that the repeatability in positioning accuracy of the macro and micro platform reaches the level of micron and submicron respectively.Practical experiments of motion control and simulated brain electrode implantation validate the excellent performance and stability of the entire surgical robot system.This research contributes innovative insights to the development of medical surgical robot systems,particularly in the domain of mechanism design.展开更多
The reconstruction control of modular self-reconfigurable spacecraft (MSRS) is addressed using an adaptive sliding mode control (ASMC) scheme based on time-delay estimation (TDE) technology. In contrast to the ground,...The reconstruction control of modular self-reconfigurable spacecraft (MSRS) is addressed using an adaptive sliding mode control (ASMC) scheme based on time-delay estimation (TDE) technology. In contrast to the ground, the base of the MSRS is floating when assembled in orbit, resulting in a strong dynamic coupling effect. A TED-based ASMC technique with exponential reaching law is designed to achieve high-precision coordinated control between the spacecraft base and the robotic arm. TDE technology is used by the controller to compensate for coupling terms and uncertainties, while ASMC can augment and improve TDE’s robustness. To suppress TDE errors and eliminate chattering, a new adaptive law is created to modify gain parameters online, ensuring quick dynamic response and high tracking accuracy. The Lyapunov approach shows that the tracking errors are uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB). Finally, the on-orbit assembly process of MSRS is simulated to validate the efficacy of the proposed control scheme. The simulation results show that the proposed control method can accurately complete the target module’s on-orbit assembly, with minimal perturbations to the spacecraft’s attitude. Meanwhile, it has a high level of robustness and can effectively eliminate chattering.展开更多
Reconfigurable modular robots feature high mobility due to their unconstrained connection manners.Inspired by the snake multi-joint crawling principle,a chain-type reconfigurable modular robot(CRMR)is designed,which c...Reconfigurable modular robots feature high mobility due to their unconstrained connection manners.Inspired by the snake multi-joint crawling principle,a chain-type reconfigurable modular robot(CRMR)is designed,which could reassemble into various configurations through the compound joint motion.Moreover,an illumination adaptive modular robot identification(IAMRI)algorithm is proposed for CRMR.At first,an adaptive threshold is applied to detect oriented FAST features in the robot image.Then,the effective detection of features in non-uniform illumination areas is achieved through an optimized quadtree decomposition method.After matching features,an improved random sample consensus algorithm is employed to eliminate the mismatched features.Finally,the reconfigurable robot module is identified effectively through the perspective transformation.Compared with ORB,MA,Y-ORB,and S-ORB algorithms,the IAMRI algorithm has an improvement of over 11.6%in feature uniformity,and 13.7%in the comprehensive indicator,respectively.The IAMRI algorithm limits the relative error within 2.5 pixels,efficiently completing the CRMR identification under complex environmental changes.展开更多
For a self-reconfigurable robot, how to metamorphose to adapt itself to environment is a difficult problem. To solve this problem, a new relative orientation model which describes modules and their surrounding grids w...For a self-reconfigurable robot, how to metamorphose to adapt itself to environment is a difficult problem. To solve this problem, a new relative orientation model which describes modules and their surrounding grids was given, a module motion rules database which enables the robot to avoid obstacles was established, and finally a three-layer planner based on dynamic meta-modules was developed. The firstlayer planner designates the category of each module in robot by evaluation functions and picks out the modules in dynamic meta-modules. The second-layer planner plans the dynamic meta-module path according to output parameters of the first-layer planner. The third-layer planner plans the motion of the modules in dynamic meta-module using topology variation oriented methods. To validate the efficiency of the three-layer planner, two simulations were given. One is the simulation of a single dynamic meta-module, the other is the simulation of planning with an initial configuration composed of 8 modules in complicated environment. Results show that the methods can make robot with any initial configuration move through metamorphosis in complicated environment efficiently.展开更多
A novel three-module robot has been introduced. It can change its configuration to adapt to the uneven terrain and to improve its tipover stability. This three-module tracked robot has three kinds of symmetry configur...A novel three-module robot has been introduced. It can change its configuration to adapt to the uneven terrain and to improve its tipover stability. This three-module tracked robot has three kinds of symmetry configuration. They are line type, triangle type, and row type. After the factors and the countermeasures of mobile robot＇s tipover problem are analyzed, stability pyramid and tipover stabil-ity index are proposed to globally determinate the mobile robot＇s static stability and dynamic stability. The shape shifting robot is tested by this technique under the combined disturbance of pitch, roll and yaw in simulation. The simulation result shows that this technique is effective for the analysis of mobile robot＇s tipover stability, especially for the reconfigurable or shape shifting modular robot. Experiments on three symmetry configurations are made under unstructured environments. The environment experiment shows the same result as that of the simulation that the triangle type configuration has the best stability. Both simulation and experiment provide a valid reference for the reconfigurable robot＇s potential application.展开更多
Lattice modular robots possess diversity actuation methods, such as electric telescopic rod, gear rack, magnet, robot arm, etc. The researches on lattice modular robots mainly focus on their hardware descriptions and ...Lattice modular robots possess diversity actuation methods, such as electric telescopic rod, gear rack, magnet, robot arm, etc. The researches on lattice modular robots mainly focus on their hardware descriptions and reconfiguration algorithms. Meanwhile, their design architectures and actuation methods perform slow telescopic and moving speeds, relative low actuation force verse weight ratio, and without internal space to carry objects. To improve the mechanical performance and reveal the locomotion and reconfiguration binary essences of the lattice modular robots, a novel cube-shaped, frame-like, pneumatic-based reconfigurable robot module called pneumatic expandable cube（PE-Cube） is proposed. The three-dimensional（3D） expanding construction and omni-directional rolling analysis of the constructed robots are the main focuses. The PE-Cube with three degrees of freedom（Do Fs） is assembled by replacing the twelve edges of a cube with pneumatic cylinders. The proposed symmetric construction condition makes the constructed robots possess the same properties in each supporting state, and a binary control strategy cooperated with binary actuator（pneumatic cylinder） is directly adopted to control the PE-Cube. Taking an eight PE-Cube modules＇ construction as example, its dynamic rolling simulation, static rolling condition, and turning gait are illustrated and discussed. To testify telescopic synchronization, respond speed, locomotion feasibility, and repeatability and reliability of hardware system, an experimental pneumatic-based robotic system is built and the rolling and turning experiments of the eight PE-Cube modules＇ construction are carried out. As an extension, the locomotion feasibility of a thirty-two PE-Cube modules＇ construction is analyzed and proved, including dynamic rolling simulation, static rolling condition, and dynamic analysis in free tipping process. The proposed PE-Cube module, construction method, and locomotion analysis enrich the family of the lattice modular robot and provide the instruction to design the lattice modular robot.展开更多
The level of automation in the manufacture of recreational aluminum boats is very low. Robotized welding is rarely utilized, although it is commonly considered as the most effective way to reduce costs and increase co...The level of automation in the manufacture of recreational aluminum boats is very low. Robotized welding is rarely utilized, although it is commonly considered as the most effective way to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. A reason for the under-exploitation of robotics can be found in the construction of aluminum boats;boat models and their detailed structures are almost without exception individual pieces. A new stiffener structure for an aluminum recreational boat hull is developed in this work. Construction of the stiffener as a module allows exploitation of the advantages of modularization. The number of different parts is reduced and the structure simplified improves the applicability of robotic welding and provides benefits accruing from mass production. The same module can be used in several boat models. The modularity also makes it possible to use the same advanced robot welding fixture for a variety of boat models.展开更多
A reconfigurable modular robot was developed for a free-flying robot project. This robot was composed of 6 same modular joints and one gripper. In order to save space and cost for transporting it into the space, the r...A reconfigurable modular robot was developed for a free-flying robot project. This robot was composed of 6 same modular joints and one gripper. In order to save space and cost for transporting it into the space, the robot should be folded overall and locked. A big central hole in the modular joint was designed for the placement of the cables and plugs in the robot arm, which prevented them from damage of high temperature, radiation in the space environment and the motion of the robot. Multiple sensors were integrated into the fully modular joint, such as joint torque sensor, joint position sensor and temperature sensors, which made the joint more intelligent. A zero gravity experimental system was developed to verify the functions of the robot under zero gravity environment.展开更多
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.61375076)Research&Innovation Program for Graduate Student in Universities of Jiangsu Province(No.CXLX13-085)the Scientific Research Foundation of Graduate School of Southeast University(No.YBJJ1350)
文摘To solve the problem of inaccurate angle adjustment in the self-assembly process, a new homogenous hybrid modular self-reconfigurable robot-Xmobot is designed. Each module has four rotary joints and a self-turning mechanism. With the proposed self-turning mechanism, the angle adjusting accuracy of the module is increased to 2°, and the relative position adjusting efficiency of the module in the self-assembly process is also improved. The measured maximum moving distance of the proposed module in a gait cycle is 11.0 cm. Aiming at the multiple degree of freedom （MDOF） feature of the proposed module, a motion controller based on the central pattern generator （CPG） is proposed. The control of five joints of the module only requires two CPG oscillators. The CPG-based motion controller has three basic output modes, i. e. the oscillation, the rotation, and the fixed modes. The serpentine and the wheeled movements of the H-shaped robot are simulated, respectively. The results show that the average velocities of the two movements are 15. 2 and 20. 1 m/min, respectively. The proposed CPG-based motion controller is evaluated to be effective.
文摘Based on the character of the modular self-reconfigurable （MSR） robot, a novel homogeneous and lattice MSR robot, M-Cubes, was designed. Each module unit of the robot has 12 freedoms and is composed of six rotary joints and one cubic link. An attached/detached mechanism was designed on the rotary joints. A novel space transmitting system was placed on the inner portion of the cubic link. A motor separately transmitted torque to the six joints which were distributed equally on six surfaces of the cubic link. The example of a basic motion for the module was demonstrated. The result shows that the robot is concise and compact in structure, highly efficient in transmission, credible in connecting, and simple in controlling. At the same time, a simulator is developed to graphically design the system configuration, the reconfiguration process and the motion of cluster modules. The character of local action for the cellular automata （CA） is utilized. Each module is simplified as a cell. The transition rules of the CA are developed to combine with the genetic algorithm （GA） and applied to each module to accomplish distributed control. Simulation proves that the method is effective and feasible.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Programme of China（2006AA04Z220）； the National Natural Science Foundation of China（60705027）；Partially Supported by Progranl for Changjiang SchoLars and Innovative Research Team in University（PCSIRT）（IRT0423）.
文摘A novel modular self-reconfigurable robot called UBot is presented.This robot consists of severalstandard modules.The module is cubic structure based on double rotational DOF,and has four connect-ing surfaces that can connect to adjacent modules.A hook-type mechanism is designed,which can quick-ly and reliably connect to or disconnect from adjacent module.This mechanism is self-locking after con-nected,and energy-saving.To achieve small overall size and mass,compact mechanical structures andelectrical systems are adopted in modular design.The modules have embedded power supply and adoptwireless communication,which can avoid cable-winding and improve flexibility of locomotion and self-re-configuration.A group of UBot modules can adapt their configuration and function to the changing envi-ronment without external help by changing their connections and positions .The basic motion and self-re-configuration are proposed,and the experiments of worm-like locomotion are implemented.
基金Project (No. 50305021) supported by the National Natural ScienceFoundation of China
文摘In this paper, we propose a novel, 3D, like cubic shape, modular self-reconfigurable (MSR) robot named M-Cubes. Its key mechanical components are analyzed in detail. By communicating with the neighboring modules, each unit employs its automatic lock device composed of a pin and a hole on each connection plane which can connect or disconnect with neighboring modules. The M-Cubes system consisting of many identical modules cooperates to change their connection, and then the whole structure transforms into arbitrary structure. Furthermore, we describe its locomotion control based on the driving function and the adjacency matrix which is effective for solving the computationally difficult problem and optimizing the system motion path during the self-reconfiguration process. Finally, a simulation experiment using java 3D technology, proved the new method for controlling modular robot is robust and useful.
基金the National High Technology Research and Development Programme of China(No.2006AA04Z220)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.60705027)Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University(PCSIRT)(No.IRT0423)
文摘Configuration information acquisition and matching are two important steps in the self-reconfiguring process of self-reconfigurable robots. The process of configuration information acquisition was introduced, and a self-reconfiguring configuration matching strategy based on graded optimization mechanism was proposed. The first-grade optimization was to search common connection between matching scheme and goal configuration. The second-grade optimization, whose object function was constructed in terms of configuration connectivity, was to search connnon topology according to the results of the first-grade optimization. The entire process of configuration information acquisition and matching was verified by an experiment and genetic algorithm （GA）. The result shows the accuracy of the configuration information acquisition and the effectiveness of the configuration matching method.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Programme of China ( No. 2004AA420110)Heilongjiang Province Technology Foundation (No. GB04A502)
文摘A novel mobile self-reconfigurable robot is presented. This robot consists of several independent units. Each unit is composed of modular components including ultrasonic sensor, camera, communication, computation, and mobility parts, and is capable of simple self-reconfiguring to enhance its mobility by expanding itself. Several units can not only link into a train or other shapes autonomously via camera and sensors to be a united whole robot for obstacle clearing, but also disjoin to be separate units under control after missions. To achieve small overall size, compact mechanical structures are adopted in modular components design, and a miniature advanced RISC machines （ARM） based embedded controller is developed for minimal power consumption and efficient global control. The docking experiment between two units has also been implemented.
文摘A self-reconfigurable robot is a non-linear complex system composed of a large number of modules. The complexity caused by non-linearity makes it difficult to solve the problem of module motion planning and shape-changing control with the traditional algorithm. In this paper, a full-discrete metamorphic algorithm is proposed. The modules concurrently process the local sensing information, update their eigenvector, and act by the same predetermined logical rules. Then a reasonable motion sequence for modules and the global metamorphosis can be obtained. Therefore, the complexity of metamorphic algorithm is reduced, the metamorphic procedure is simplified, and the self-organizing metamorphosis can be obtained. The algorithm cases of several typical systems are studied and evaluated through simulation program of 2-D planar homogeneous modular systems.
文摘The most important feature of Modular Self-reconfigurable Robot （MSRR） is the adaption to complex environments and changeable tasks. A critical difficulty is that the operator should regulate a large number of control parameters of modules. In this paper, a novel locomotion control model based on chaotic Central Pattern Generator （CPG） is proposed. The chaotic CPG could produce various rhythm signals or chaotic signal only by changing one parameter. Utilizing this characteristic, a unified control model capable of switching variable locomotion patterns or generating chaotic motion for modular self-reconfigurable robot is presented. This model makes MSRR exhibit environmental adaptability. The efficiency of the control model is verified through simulation and experiment of UBot MSRR platform.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.61175069,51075272,51475300)
文摘A novel hybrid self-reconfigurable modular robot is designed to finish the morphing action from line shape to hexagon shape. The robot is composed of many basic modules,each of which consists of a master module and a slave module in the shape of triangular prism. There are four connection ports on each basic module. For the master module there are two holes on each connection port,and for the slave one there are two pegs on each connection. The docking process between two neighboring basic modules is analyzed with a peg-in-hole mechanical structure. A small motion's method is presented and the contact forces are derived. According to the force/moment,the pose of a motion module should be adjusted to make two neighboring modules align and finish the docking process.Finally,a simulation of 3 basic modules is shown to finish the morphing and docking process effectively. The system can finish the morphing task from the line shape to the hexagon shape.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.50305021)
文摘The eigenvector of a module with six adjacent module's state was constructed according to self-reconfigurable robot M-Cubes and the configuration of system was expressed with the eigenvectors of all modules.According to the configuration and motion characteristics of the modules,a 3-dimension motion rule set was provided.The rule sets of each module was run according to eigenvector of the module after the motion direction of system decided and motion rules were selected.At last,the rapid and effective motion and metamorphosis were realized in system.The rule sets are operated on three systems and the distributed motion of system is fully realized.The result of simulation shows that the 3-dimension motion rule sets has perfect applicability and extensibility.The motion steps and communication load of the modules increase with the module number in linear.
基金Supported by Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project of China(Grant No.2021SHZDZX).
文摘The advancement and development of medical surgical robots have provided new technological support for brain surgery and neurosurgical procedures,improving the reliability of highly complex and precise surgeries.In turn,this urges the design and development of novel surgical robots to possess higher precision,stability,and enhanced motion capabilities.In response to this practical demand,this paper introduces a macro-micro integrated medical brain surgery robot system based on the concept of modular PMs(parallel mechanisms),which have a total of 13 active DOFs(degrees of freedom).This system divides the motion process of brain surgery into a large-scale macro-motion space and a small-scale high-precision motion space for design and planning control.The introduction of the design concept that combines multiple modular parallel sub-mechanisms has brought a significant level of decoupling characteristics to the mechanism itself.A comprehensive introduction and analysis of the surgical robot are provided,covering aspects such as design,kinematics,motion planning,and performance indicators.To address the pose allocation and coordination of motion between the macro platform and the micro platform,a pose allocation algorithm based on the decoupling and non-decoupling characteristics in various dimensions of the macro-micro platform is proposed.The designed measurement experiments have demonstrated that the repeatability in positioning accuracy of the macro and micro platform reaches the level of micron and submicron respectively.Practical experiments of motion control and simulated brain electrode implantation validate the excellent performance and stability of the entire surgical robot system.This research contributes innovative insights to the development of medical surgical robot systems,particularly in the domain of mechanism design.
基金This study was supported by the National Defense Science and Technology Innovation Zone of China(Grant No.00205501).
文摘The reconstruction control of modular self-reconfigurable spacecraft (MSRS) is addressed using an adaptive sliding mode control (ASMC) scheme based on time-delay estimation (TDE) technology. In contrast to the ground, the base of the MSRS is floating when assembled in orbit, resulting in a strong dynamic coupling effect. A TED-based ASMC technique with exponential reaching law is designed to achieve high-precision coordinated control between the spacecraft base and the robotic arm. TDE technology is used by the controller to compensate for coupling terms and uncertainties, while ASMC can augment and improve TDE’s robustness. To suppress TDE errors and eliminate chattering, a new adaptive law is created to modify gain parameters online, ensuring quick dynamic response and high tracking accuracy. The Lyapunov approach shows that the tracking errors are uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB). Finally, the on-orbit assembly process of MSRS is simulated to validate the efficacy of the proposed control scheme. The simulation results show that the proposed control method can accurately complete the target module’s on-orbit assembly, with minimal perturbations to the spacecraft’s attitude. Meanwhile, it has a high level of robustness and can effectively eliminate chattering.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2018YFB1304600)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.62003337)+1 种基金the Open Fund for State Key Laboratory of Robotics(Grant No.2023O03)the Liaoning Province Joint Open Fund for Key Scientific and Technological Innovation Bases(Grant No.2021-KF-12-05).
文摘Reconfigurable modular robots feature high mobility due to their unconstrained connection manners.Inspired by the snake multi-joint crawling principle,a chain-type reconfigurable modular robot(CRMR)is designed,which could reassemble into various configurations through the compound joint motion.Moreover,an illumination adaptive modular robot identification(IAMRI)algorithm is proposed for CRMR.At first,an adaptive threshold is applied to detect oriented FAST features in the robot image.Then,the effective detection of features in non-uniform illumination areas is achieved through an optimized quadtree decomposition method.After matching features,an improved random sample consensus algorithm is employed to eliminate the mismatched features.Finally,the reconfigurable robot module is identified effectively through the perspective transformation.Compared with ORB,MA,Y-ORB,and S-ORB algorithms,the IAMRI algorithm has an improvement of over 11.6%in feature uniformity,and 13.7%in the comprehensive indicator,respectively.The IAMRI algorithm limits the relative error within 2.5 pixels,efficiently completing the CRMR identification under complex environmental changes.
基金the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China(No.2006AA04Z220)the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.60705027)+1 种基金Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University(PCSIRT)(No.IRT0423)Heilongjiang Postdoctoral Foundation of China(No.LRB-KY 02029)
文摘For a self-reconfigurable robot, how to metamorphose to adapt itself to environment is a difficult problem. To solve this problem, a new relative orientation model which describes modules and their surrounding grids was given, a module motion rules database which enables the robot to avoid obstacles was established, and finally a three-layer planner based on dynamic meta-modules was developed. The firstlayer planner designates the category of each module in robot by evaluation functions and picks out the modules in dynamic meta-modules. The second-layer planner plans the dynamic meta-module path according to output parameters of the first-layer planner. The third-layer planner plans the motion of the modules in dynamic meta-module using topology variation oriented methods. To validate the efficiency of the three-layer planner, two simulations were given. One is the simulation of a single dynamic meta-module, the other is the simulation of planning with an initial configuration composed of 8 modules in complicated environment. Results show that the methods can make robot with any initial configuration move through metamorphosis in complicated environment efficiently.
基金This project is supported by National Hi-Tech Research and Development Program of China(863 Program, No.2001AA422360) Chinese Academy of Sciences Advanced Manufacturing Technology R&D Base Foundation, Chrna(No.F000112).
文摘A novel three-module robot has been introduced. It can change its configuration to adapt to the uneven terrain and to improve its tipover stability. This three-module tracked robot has three kinds of symmetry configuration. They are line type, triangle type, and row type. After the factors and the countermeasures of mobile robot＇s tipover problem are analyzed, stability pyramid and tipover stabil-ity index are proposed to globally determinate the mobile robot＇s static stability and dynamic stability. The shape shifting robot is tested by this technique under the combined disturbance of pitch, roll and yaw in simulation. The simulation result shows that this technique is effective for the analysis of mobile robot＇s tipover stability, especially for the reconfigurable or shape shifting modular robot. Experiments on three symmetry configurations are made under unstructured environments. The environment experiment shows the same result as that of the simulation that the triangle type configuration has the best stability. Both simulation and experiment provide a valid reference for the reconfigurable robot＇s potential application.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51175030)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China(Grant No.2012JBZ002)+1 种基金Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education(Grant No.20130009110030)Major Project of Ministry of Education of China(Grant No.625010403)
文摘Lattice modular robots possess diversity actuation methods, such as electric telescopic rod, gear rack, magnet, robot arm, etc. The researches on lattice modular robots mainly focus on their hardware descriptions and reconfiguration algorithms. Meanwhile, their design architectures and actuation methods perform slow telescopic and moving speeds, relative low actuation force verse weight ratio, and without internal space to carry objects. To improve the mechanical performance and reveal the locomotion and reconfiguration binary essences of the lattice modular robots, a novel cube-shaped, frame-like, pneumatic-based reconfigurable robot module called pneumatic expandable cube（PE-Cube） is proposed. The three-dimensional（3D） expanding construction and omni-directional rolling analysis of the constructed robots are the main focuses. The PE-Cube with three degrees of freedom（Do Fs） is assembled by replacing the twelve edges of a cube with pneumatic cylinders. The proposed symmetric construction condition makes the constructed robots possess the same properties in each supporting state, and a binary control strategy cooperated with binary actuator（pneumatic cylinder） is directly adopted to control the PE-Cube. Taking an eight PE-Cube modules＇ construction as example, its dynamic rolling simulation, static rolling condition, and turning gait are illustrated and discussed. To testify telescopic synchronization, respond speed, locomotion feasibility, and repeatability and reliability of hardware system, an experimental pneumatic-based robotic system is built and the rolling and turning experiments of the eight PE-Cube modules＇ construction are carried out. As an extension, the locomotion feasibility of a thirty-two PE-Cube modules＇ construction is analyzed and proved, including dynamic rolling simulation, static rolling condition, and dynamic analysis in free tipping process. The proposed PE-Cube module, construction method, and locomotion analysis enrich the family of the lattice modular robot and provide the instruction to design the lattice modular robot.
文摘The level of automation in the manufacture of recreational aluminum boats is very low. Robotized welding is rarely utilized, although it is commonly considered as the most effective way to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. A reason for the under-exploitation of robotics can be found in the construction of aluminum boats;boat models and their detailed structures are almost without exception individual pieces. A new stiffener structure for an aluminum recreational boat hull is developed in this work. Construction of the stiffener as a module allows exploitation of the advantages of modularization. The number of different parts is reduced and the structure simplified improves the applicability of robotic welding and provides benefits accruing from mass production. The same module can be used in several boat models. The modularity also makes it possible to use the same advanced robot welding fixture for a variety of boat models.
文摘A reconfigurable modular robot was developed for a free-flying robot project. This robot was composed of 6 same modular joints and one gripper. In order to save space and cost for transporting it into the space, the robot should be folded overall and locked. A big central hole in the modular joint was designed for the placement of the cables and plugs in the robot arm, which prevented them from damage of high temperature, radiation in the space environment and the motion of the robot. Multiple sensors were integrated into the fully modular joint, such as joint torque sensor, joint position sensor and temperature sensors, which made the joint more intelligent. A zero gravity experimental system was developed to verify the functions of the robot under zero gravity environment.
